JP2013103799A - Conveying device and image forming system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce noise produced when a conveying member for conveying a recording material makes contact with a recording material.SOLUTION: A finisher unit 22 includes a lower side guide plate 226 for guiding paper P, a paper accumulation part 50 for accumulating paper P from the lower side guide plate 226, a main paddle part 222 and a sub-paddle part 223 for conveying the paper P on the paper accumulation part 50, and a discharge roll 224 for discharging the paper P from the paper accumulation part 50. The main paddle part 222 includes a center paddle 80, a first end paddle 81 and a second end paddle 82 each having three paddle blades, and each paddle blade makes contact with the lower side guide plate 226 as the main paddle part 222 rotates and then makes contact with the paper P accumulated in the paper accumulation part 50 with vibration caused due to passage. In addition, when each paddle blade makes contact with the paper P on the paper accumulation part 50, each paddle blade vibrates so as to face an opposite side to a rotary direction of the main paddle part 222.

Description

  The present invention relates to a conveyance device and an image forming system.

  As a prior art described in the publication, in a stacker having a paper stacking table for receiving and stacking paper and an abutting member for abutting and aligning the leading edge of the paper, the stacker is arranged in a direction orthogonal to the paper receiving direction. A paddle, a drive transmission member that rotates the paddle, and a position change member that moves the paddle in a direction perpendicular to the paper conveyance direction, and the position change member moves the paddle in a direction perpendicular to the paper conveyance direction. In some cases, the paper received on the placement surface of the paper stacking table is conveyed while being pressed by a paddle (see Patent Document 1).

JP 2008-24506 A

  An object of the present invention is to reduce noise generated when a conveying member that conveys a recording material contacts the recording material.

The invention described in claim 1 has a stacking section for stacking the recording material that is carried in, and a contact section that is rotatably provided and intermittently contacts the recording material on the stacking section as it rotates. And a contact member that transports the recording material on the stacking unit, and a contact region where the contact unit and the recording material on the stacking unit are in contact with the contact unit on the upstream side in the rotation direction of the transport member. And a vibrating member that vibrates the contact portion so that the contact portion is directed to a side opposite to the rotation direction of the transport member when the contact portion contacts the recording material on the stacking portion. It is a transport device.
According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the conveying apparatus according to the first aspect, the vibration member also serves as a guide member for guiding the recording material that is carried into the stacking portion.
The invention according to claim 3 is characterized in that the conveying member rotates at a predetermined peripheral speed, and a plurality of the contact portions are provided at equal intervals along the rotation direction of the conveying member. It is a conveying apparatus of Claim 1.
According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the conveying apparatus according to the first aspect, further comprising a post-processing unit that performs predetermined post-processing on the one or a plurality of recording materials stacked on the stacking unit. .

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording material, a stacking unit that stacks a recording material that is carried in a state where an image is formed by the image forming unit, and a rotation unit are rotatably provided. And a conveying member that intermittently contacts the recording material on the stacking unit as it rotates, and transports the recording material on the stacking unit, and the contact unit and the recording material on the stacking unit Is provided so as to come into contact with the contact portion on the upstream side in the rotation direction of the transport member with respect to the contact area, and the contact portion is transported when the contact portion comes into contact with the recording material on the stacking portion. The image forming system includes a vibrating member that vibrates the contact portion in a direction opposite to the rotation direction of the member.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to reduce noise generated when the conveying member that conveys the recording material comes into contact with the recording material, as compared with the case where this configuration is not provided.
According to the second aspect of the present invention, the configuration of the apparatus can be simplified and the apparatus can be downsized as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided.
According to the third aspect of the present invention, it is possible to increase the conveying force of the recording material and to suppress the generation of noise as compared with the case where this configuration is not provided.
According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to post-process the stacked recording materials as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided.
According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to reduce noise generated when the conveying member that conveys the recording material comes into contact with the recording material, as compared with the case where this configuration is not provided.

1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of an image forming system in the present embodiment. FIG. 6 is a view showing a state where the sub paddle part and the advance / retreat roll are set at the retracted position, which is a main part of the finisher unit. FIG. 6 is a view showing a state where a sub paddle part and an advance / retreat roll are set at an advanced position, which is a main part of the finisher unit. It is the figure which showed an example of the whole structure of the main paddle part. It is the figure which showed an example of the whole structure of a sub paddle part. It is a figure for demonstrating the shape of the center paddle in a main paddle part. It is a figure for demonstrating the behavior at the time of a center paddle rotating in a finisher unit. It is a figure for demonstrating the vibration which arises in a paddle feather.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming system to which the exemplary embodiment is applied.
This image forming system performs post-processing such as binding on an image forming apparatus 1 that forms a color image by, for example, an electrophotographic method, and a sheet P as an example of a recording material on which an image is formed by the image forming apparatus 1. And a sheet post-processing apparatus 2 to be performed.

  An image forming apparatus 1 as an example of an image forming unit is configured by a so-called tandem method, and has four image forming units 100Y, 100M, 100C, and 100K (hereinafter, as necessary) that perform image formation based on each color image data. And a laser exposure apparatus 101 that exposes a photosensitive drum 107 provided in each image forming unit 100. In addition, the image forming apparatus 1 includes an intermediate transfer belt 102 onto which the toner images of the respective colors formed by the respective image forming units 100 are transferred, and the intermediate transfer belt 102 to which the respective color toner images formed by the respective image forming units 100 are transferred. A primary transfer roll 103 that sequentially transfers (primary transfer) to each other, and a secondary transfer roll 104 that collectively transfers (secondary transfer) each color toner image transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 102 to a recording material (paper). In addition, a fixing device 105 for fixing each color toner image on a sheet, and a main body control unit 106 for controlling the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 are provided.

  In each image forming unit 100 of the image forming apparatus 1, the charging process to the photosensitive drum 107, the electrostatic latent image forming process on the photosensitive drum 107 by the scanning exposure from the laser exposure apparatus 101, and the formed electrostatic latent image The toner image of each color is formed through the development process of each color toner. Each color toner image formed on each image forming unit 100 is sequentially electrostatically transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 102 by the corresponding primary transfer roll 103. Each color toner image is conveyed toward the position where the secondary transfer roll 104 is provided as the intermediate transfer belt 102 moves.

  On the other hand, in the image forming apparatus 1, a plurality of sheets P1 to P4 of different sizes and different paper types (hereinafter, these may be collectively referred to as “sheet P”) are respectively stored in the sheet storage units 110A to 110D. Contained. For example, when the paper P1 is designated by the main body control unit 106, the paper P1 is taken out from the paper storage unit 110A by the pickup roll 111, and conveyed one by one to the position of the registration roll 113 by the conveyance roll 112. The same applies to the case where the sheets P2 to P4 are designated by the main body control unit 106. Then, the paper P is supplied from the registration roll 113 in accordance with the timing when each color toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 102 is conveyed to the arrangement position of the secondary transfer roll 104. As a result, the toner images of the respective colors are collectively electrostatically transferred (secondary transfer) onto the paper P by the action of the transfer electric field formed by the secondary transfer roll 104.

Thereafter, the paper P onto which the color toner images are secondarily transferred is peeled off from the intermediate transfer belt 102 and conveyed to the fixing device 105. In the fixing device 105, each color toner image is fixed on the paper P by a fixing process using heat and pressure, and an image is formed. Then, the sheet P on which the image is formed is discharged from the sheet discharge unit T of the image forming apparatus 1 by the transport roll 114 and is transported to the sheet post-processing apparatus 2 connected to the image forming apparatus 1.
The sheet post-processing apparatus 2 is disposed on the downstream side of the paper discharge unit T of the image forming apparatus 1 and performs post-processing such as punching and binding on the paper P on which the image is formed.

In addition, the sheet post-processing apparatus 2 includes a transport unit 21 connected to the paper discharge unit T of the image forming apparatus 1 and a finisher unit that performs predetermined post-processing on the paper P taken into the transport unit 21. 22. A sheet processing control unit 23 that controls each mechanism unit of the sheet post-processing apparatus 2 is provided. Here, the paper processing control unit 23 is connected to the main body control unit 106 through a signal line (not shown), and transmits and receives control signals and the like.
In the sheet post-processing apparatus 2 in FIG. 1, the sheet processing control unit 23 is provided in the casing of the finisher unit 22, but the sheet processing control unit 23 may be provided in the casing of the image forming apparatus 1. Further, the main body control unit 106 of the image forming apparatus 1 may be configured to have the control function of the paper processing control unit 23.

  In the sheet post-processing apparatus 2, the transport unit 21 includes a punch function unit 30 for punching (punching), for example, 2 holes or 4 holes, and a sheet P on which an image is formed by the image forming apparatus 1. 22 is provided with a plurality of transport rolls 211 that transport toward the head 22.

  On the other hand, in the sheet post-processing apparatus 2, the finisher unit 22 is necessary for the carry-in roll 221 for carrying the paper P sent from the transport unit 21 into the finisher unit 22 and the paper P conveyed by the carry-in roll 221. According to the folding processing function unit 40 for performing a process of giving a crease, a sheet stacking unit 50 for stacking the sheets P that have passed through the folding processing function unit 40, and one end of a bundle of sheets P stacked on the sheet stacking unit 50. In addition, an end-binding function unit 60 that performs end-binding as required, and a stacker unit 70 that stacks (stacks) the sheets P discharged from the sheet stacking unit 50 or a bundle of sheets P are provided. Here, the stacker unit 70 moves downward in the figure as the bundle of discharged sheets P is stacked.

  The finisher unit 22 also includes a main paddle unit 222 and a sub paddle unit 223 that convey the paper P supplied to the paper stacking unit 50 toward the end binding function unit 60, and the paper P stacked on the paper stacking unit 50. Alternatively, a discharge roll 224 that discharges the bundle of sheets P to the stacker unit 70 is further provided. The main paddle part 222, the sub paddle part 223, and the discharge roll 224 are provided so as to be rotatable about the direction from the front side to the back side in the figure.

  In the present embodiment, the main paddle section 222 is provided on the upper side of the sheet stacking section 50 and closer to the end binding function section 60 than the sub paddle section 223. On the other hand, the sub paddle part 223 is provided on the upper side of the sheet stacking part 50 and on the side farther from the end binding function part 60 than the main paddle part 222. In the present embodiment, the main paddle unit 222 is disposed at a fixed position above the sheet stacking unit 50, whereas the sub paddle unit 223 is disposed above the sheet stacking unit 50 in the sheet stacking unit 50. It is provided so that it can move forward and backward.

  The discharge roll 224 is provided so as to be rotatable in a state where the position is fixed below the paper stacking unit 50, and to be movable forward and backward with respect to the paper stacking unit 50 above the fixed roll 224a. The advancing / retracting roll 224b is in contact with the fixed roll 224a at the time of advancement and separated from the fixed roll 224a at the time of retraction.

  Here, in the present embodiment, the discharge roll 224 is provided on the exit side (stacker unit 70 side) of the paper P in the paper stacking unit 50, and the sub paddle part 223 and the advance / retreat roll 224b in the discharge roll 224 are adjacent to each other. Are arranged. In this embodiment, the sub paddle part 223 and the advance / retreat roll 224b are configured to advance and retract integrally.

  2 and 3 are diagrams for explaining the main part of the finisher unit 22, more specifically, the configuration around the sheet stacking unit 50 and the end binding function unit 60. FIG. Here, FIG. 2 illustrates a state in which the sub paddle part 223 and the advance / retreat roll 224 b constituting the finisher unit 22 are arranged at the retreat position Pe away from the paper stacking part 50. 3 illustrates a state in which the sub-paddle part 223 and the advance / retreat roll 224b are moved along the advance direction A from the retracted position Pe and disposed at the advance position Pa closer to the paper stacking part 50. .

  The finisher unit 22 of the present embodiment is a guide member that constitutes a conveyance path for guiding the paper P that has passed through the folding processing function unit 40 (see FIG. 1) to the paper stacking unit 50, more specifically, It further includes an upper guide plate 225 that functions as an upper guide member in the transport path, and a lower guide plate 226 that functions as a lower guide member in the transport path. Each of the upper guide plate 225 and the lower guide plate 226 has a curved shape so as to guide the sheet P in the diagonally downward right direction in the drawing and then guide it in the diagonally right upward direction from the horizontal direction in the drawing. have. Further, on the exit side of the paper P in the upper guide plate 225, a static elimination brush 227 that contacts the conveyed paper P and neutralizes the paper P is attached. In the present embodiment, the lower guide plate 226 functions as an example of a vibration member.

  In the following description, the moving direction of the paper P discharged from the upper guide plate 225 and the lower guide plate 226 is referred to as a carry-in direction D1. In the following, the front side in the traveling direction of the paper P moving along the carry-in direction D1 is referred to as “front end”, and the rear side in the traveling direction of the paper P in this case is referred to as “rear end”.

  Further, in the finisher unit 22, a paper stacking unit 50 as an example of a stacking unit is located from the lower left side in the drawing to the upper right side in the drawing below the outlet of the paper P by the upper guide plate 225 and the lower guide plate 226. A bottom plate 51 that is inclined toward the bottom, and a regulation plate 52 that is provided on the lower left side of the bottom plate 51 in the drawing and regulates the position of the rear end of the paper P stacked on the bottom plate 51. Note that an end binding function unit 60 as an example of a post-processing unit is provided on the side of the regulation plate 52 in the paper stacking unit 50. When the end binding processing is performed on the paper P accumulated on the bottom plate 51, the regulation is performed. The plate 52 moves (withdraws) from the illustrated position by rotating around the boundary with the bottom plate 51 as an axis.

  Further, in the finisher unit 22, the main paddle portion 222 is disposed at a portion sandwiched between the bottom plate 51 and the lower guide plate 226 of the paper stacking portion 50, and is configured to rotate clockwise in the drawing. ing. Here, the position of the rotating shaft in the main paddle portion 222 is fixed. The main paddle portion 222 comes into contact with both the bottom plate 51 (or the paper P accumulated on the bottom plate 51) and the lower guide plate 226 with rotation.

  Furthermore, in the finisher unit 22, the sub paddle part 223 is disposed on the side closer to the exit of the finisher unit 22 than the main paddle part 222 so as to face the fixed roll 224a of the discharge roll 224, and is clockwise in the figure. It is configured to rotate in the direction. Here, the position of the rotating shaft in the sub-paddle portion 223 is configured to be movable as shown in FIGS. When the sub paddle portion 223 is disposed at the advance position Pa shown in FIG. 3, the sub paddle portion 223 comes into contact with the bottom plate 51 (or the paper P accumulated on the bottom plate 51) as it rotates. Further, when the sub-paddle portion 223 is disposed at the retracted position Pe shown in FIG. 2, the sub-paddle portion 223 does not come into contact with the bottom plate 51 (or the paper P accumulated on the bottom plate 51) even if rotated. .

  In the following description, the moving direction of the sheet P conveyed by the main paddle unit 222 and the sub paddle unit 223 in the sheet stacking unit 50 is referred to as an introduction direction D2. In this example, since the carry-in direction D1 and the introduction direction D2 are opposite to each other, the front side of the paper P in the introduction direction D2 is the “rear end”, and the rear side of the paper P in this case is the “front end”. Become.

  In the finisher unit 22, the discharge roll 224 is disposed adjacent to the sub-paddle portion 223. The fixed roll 224a on the driving side is in the clockwise direction in the figure, and the forward / backward roll 224b on the driven side is in the figure. Each is configured to rotate in the clockwise direction. Among these, the position of the rotating shaft in the fixed roll 224a is fixed. Moreover, the position of the rotating shaft in the advance / retreat roll 224b constituting the discharge roll 224 is configured to be movable as shown in FIGS. When the advance / retreat roll 224b is disposed at the advance position Pa shown in FIG. 3, the advance / retreat roll 224b comes into contact with the fixed roll 224a (or the paper P existing on the fixed roll 224a) as it rotates. Further, when the advance / retreat roll 224b is arranged at the retracted position Pe shown in FIG. 2, even if it rotates, it does not come into contact with the fixed roll 224a (or the paper P existing on the fixed roll 224a). Yes. And when the advancing / retreating roll 224b contacts with the fixed roll 224a, it receives a driving force from the fixed roll 224a and rotates.

  In the following description, the moving direction of the paper P conveyed by the discharge roll 224 in the paper stacking unit 50 is referred to as a discharge direction D3. In this example, since the introduction direction D2 and the discharge direction D3 are opposite to each other, the front side of the paper P in the discharge direction D3 is the “front end”, and the rear side of the paper P in this case is the “rear end”. Become.

  Further, the finisher unit 22 according to the present embodiment has a width alignment mechanism (not shown) for aligning the positions of the two side edges, which are end portions other than the leading end and the trailing end of the paper P stacked on the paper stacking unit 50. Z).

Next, the configuration of the main paddle part 222 and the sub paddle part 223 provided in the finisher unit 22 will be described more specifically.
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of the main paddle unit 222.
As shown in FIG. 3, the main paddle portion 222 of the present embodiment includes a center paddle 80 provided at the center in the width direction of the paper P, a first end paddle 81 provided on both sides of the center paddle 80, and a first paddle 81. 2 end paddles 82. Among these, the center paddle 80 includes a rotary shaft 800 having a circular cross section, and a first paddle blade 801, a second paddle blade 802, and a third paddle blade provided so as to protrude from the outer peripheral surface of the rotary shaft 800. 803. The first end paddle 81 includes a rotary shaft 810 having a circular cross section, and first paddle blades 811, second paddle blades 812, and third paddles provided so as to protrude from the outer peripheral surface of the rotary shaft 810. It has wings 813. Furthermore, the second end paddle 82 includes a rotary shaft 820 having a circular cross section, and first paddle blades 821, second paddle blades 822, and third paddles provided so as to protrude from the outer peripheral surface of the rotary shaft 820. It has wings 823. In the present embodiment, the central paddle 80, the first end paddle 81, and the second end paddle 82 as an example of the conveying member have a common configuration, and details thereof will be described later.

  The main paddle portion 222 of the present embodiment has a common shaft that is passed through the rotation shaft 800, the rotation shaft 810, and the rotation shaft 820 of the center paddle 80, the first end paddle 81, and the second end paddle 82, respectively. 83 and is rotatably attached to the finisher unit 22. And the main paddle part 222 rotates in the arrow direction shown in FIG. 3 by receiving the rotational driving force from the drive part (not shown) connected to the shaft 83.

  In the present embodiment, when the main paddle portion 222 is viewed from one end side of the shaft 83, the first paddle blade 801 provided in the center paddle 80 and the first paddle provided in the first end paddle 81 are used. The wing 811 and the first paddle wing 821 provided on the second end paddle 82 are overlapped, and the second paddle 802 provided on the central paddle 80 and the second paddle provided on the first end paddle 81 are overlapped. The wing 812 overlaps with the second paddle wing 822 provided on the second end paddle 82, and the third paddle 803 provided on the central paddle 80 and the third paddle provided on the first end paddle 81. The mounting positions of the center paddle 80, the first end paddle 81, and the second end paddle 82 relative to the shaft 83 are determined so that the wing 813 and the third paddle wing 823 provided on the second end paddle 82 overlap. It is. Accordingly, the first paddle feather 801 provided in the central paddle 80, the first paddle feather 811 provided in the first end paddle 81, and the first paddle feather 821 provided in the second end paddle 82, Substantially simultaneously contact the paper P or the lower guide plate 226, and the second paddle blade 802 provided in the center paddle 80, the second paddle blade 812 provided in the first end paddle 81, The second paddle blade 822 provided on the two-end paddle 82 contacts the paper P or the lower guide plate 226 almost simultaneously, and further, the third paddle blade 803 provided on the center paddle 80 and the first end The third paddle blades 813 provided on the part paddle 81 and the third paddle blades 823 provided on the second end paddle 82 contact the paper P or the lower guide plate 226 almost simultaneously. In the present embodiment, the first paddle feather 801 to the third paddle feather 803 provided in the central paddle 80, the first paddle feather 811 to the third paddle feather 813 provided in the first end paddle 81, First paddle blades 821 to third paddle blades 823 provided on the two end paddles 82 function as contact portions, respectively.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of the sub paddle unit 223. In FIG. 5, the description of the discharge roll 224 provided in the vicinity of the sub-paddle portion 223 is omitted.
The sub paddle part 223 of this embodiment includes one sub paddle 90. The sub-paddle portion 223 includes a rotary shaft 900 having a circular cross section, and a first paddle blade 901, a second paddle blade 902, and a third paddle blade 903 provided so as to protrude from the outer peripheral surface of the rotary shaft 900. Have. In the present embodiment, the sub paddle 90 has the same configuration as the central paddle 80, the first end paddle 81, and the second end paddle 82 that constitute the main paddle portion 222. Will be described later.

  The sub-paddle portion 223 of the present embodiment further includes a shaft 93 that passes through the rotation shaft 900 of the sub-paddle 90 and is rotatably attached to the finisher unit 22. And the sub paddle part 223 rotates in the arrow direction shown in FIG. 5 by receiving the rotational driving force from the drive part (not shown) connected to the shaft 93. In the present embodiment, the sub paddle 90 in the sub paddle portion 223 and the advance / retreat roll 224b (see FIGS. 2 and 3) in the discharge roll 24 are arranged so as to be shifted in the axial direction along the shaft 93. 90 and the advance / retreat roll 224b do not interfere with each other.

  Next, the shape of the center paddle 80, the first end paddle 81, the second end paddle 82, and the sub paddle 90 constituting the main paddle portion 222 constituting the main paddle portion 222 will be described. In the present embodiment, as described above, these paddles have a common shape. Therefore, in the following description, the central paddle 80 constituting the main paddle portion 222 will be described as an example.

FIG. 6 is a view for explaining the shape of the central paddle 80 in the main paddle portion 222. Here, FIG. 6A is a front view of the central paddle 80 as viewed from the regulation plate 52 side, for example, and FIG. 6B is a side view of the central paddle 80.
As shown in FIG. 6B, the center paddle 80 of the present embodiment has a base (root) thickness T1 of the first paddle feather 801 to the third paddle feather 803 of 5 mm, and the first paddle feather 801 to the third paddle 801. The thickness T2 of the tip of the paddle feather 803 is set to 5 mm. Further, as shown in FIG. 6A, the base width B1 of the first paddle feather 801 to the third paddle feather 803 is 10 mm, and the width B2 of the tip of the first paddle feather 801 to the third paddle feather 803 is 10 mm. Is set.
Further, as shown in FIG. 6B, the first paddle feather 801 to the third paddle feather 803 of the present embodiment include the center of the rotating shaft 800 and the root of the first paddle feather 801 to the third paddle feather 803. The angle formed by the main surfaces of the first paddle feather 801 to the third paddle feather 803 is set to 90 degrees with respect to the line connecting the two.
The paddle radius Ra, which is the length from the center of the rotating shaft 800 to the tips of the first paddle blade 801 to the third paddle blade 803 in the radial direction, is 25 mm. The length L of the first paddle feather 801 to the third paddle feather 803 is set to 18 mm. The radius Rc of the rotating shaft 800 is 8.5 mm, and the radius Rh of the through hole formed in the rotating shaft 800 is 2.75 mm.

As a material constituting the central paddle 80, an elastic body such as EPDM (ethylene-propylene-diene rubber) or silicone rubber can be used. In the present embodiment, EPDM is used as the material of the central paddle 80.
The following materials can be used for the vulcanization accelerator, filler and softener added to the material of the central paddle 80 of the present embodiment. As the vulcanization accelerator, sulfur compounds, peroxide compounds and the like can be used. As the filler, calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, clay, talc, silica sand and the like can be used. As the softening agent, mineral oil such as paraffinic oil or naphthenic oil can be used.
In the center paddle 80 of the present embodiment, the rotation shaft 800 and the first paddle blade 801 to the third paddle blade 803 are integrally formed.

The operation of the image forming system according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.
Here, in the sheet post-processing apparatus 2, after the two sheets P are stacked on the sheet stacking unit 50 without performing the processing by the punch function unit 30 and the folding processing function unit 40, these two sheets P For example, a case where an end binding process using the end binding function unit 60 is performed and output to a sheet bundle made of is output.

  Note that, in the finisher unit 22 before the operation is started, the sub-paddle portion 223 and the advance / retreat roll 224b are arranged at the retracted position Pe. Further, in the finisher unit 22 before the operation is started, the main paddle part 222 and the sub paddle part 223 both stop rotating. Further, in the finisher unit 22 before the operation is started, the fixed roll 224a has stopped rotating, and is set in a free state in which rotation is possible.

As the operation starts, the main paddle unit 222 and the sub paddle unit 223 start rotating. In this example, it is assumed that both the main paddle part 222 and the sub paddle part 223 rotate at a predetermined constant rotational speed (circumferential speed).
Further, with the start of the operation, the image forming apparatus 1 forms an image on the first sheet P, and the one sheet P after the image formation is finished from the image forming apparatus 1 via the transport unit 21. It is carried into the unit 22. Then, the first sheet P carried into the finisher unit 22 further moves in the conveyance path formed between the upper guide plate 225 and the lower guide plate 226 by the carry-in roll 221 or the like, and proceeds. The paper is discharged along the carrying-in direction D1 with the front side in the direction as the front end and the rear side in the traveling direction as the rear end.

  The discharged first sheet P passes through between the main paddle part 222 and the sub paddle part 223 and between the fixed roll 224a and the advancing / retreating roll 224b due to gravity, and the sheet stacking part 50 (bottom plate) 51) Further, the sub paddle part 223 and the advance / retreat roll 224b move from the retracted position Pe to the advanced position Pa. At this time, the fixed roll 224a remains in a stopped state (a free state).

  Next, the first paddle blades 901 to 901 provided on the sub paddle 90 of the sub paddle portion 223 that rotates in the clockwise direction in the drawing are the leading end side of the first sheet P that has dropped along the loading direction D1 and toward the bottom plate 51 side. The third paddle feather 903 contacts intermittently. As a result, the traveling direction of the first sheet P is reversed, and this time, it starts moving on the bottom plate 51 along the introduction direction D2 with the front side in the traveling direction as the rear end and the rear side in the traveling direction as the front end. . At this time, the first sheet P is sandwiched between the discharge roll 224, that is, the fixed roll 224a and the advance / retreat roll 224b, but the fixed roll 224a and the advance / retreat roll 224b are in a free state. It does not hinder the movement of the eye paper P.

  Subsequently, the rear end side of the first sheet P that moves on the bottom plate 51 along the introduction direction D2 has a central paddle 80, a first end paddle 81, and a main paddle portion 222 that rotate clockwise in FIG. The first paddle blades 801, 811, 821 to the third paddle blades 803, 813, 823 provided on each of the second end paddles 82 are intermittently contacted. Thereby, the first sheet P continues to move on the bottom plate 51 along the introduction direction D2 with the front side in the traveling direction as the rear end and the rear side in the traveling direction as the front end.

  When the trailing edge of the first sheet P moving in the introduction direction D2 hits the wall surface of the restriction plate 52 in the sheet stacking unit 50, the movement of the first sheet P along the introduction direction D2 is restricted. Then, the first sheet P stops. Then, the sub paddle part 223 and the advance / retreat roll 224b move from the advance position Pa to the retreat position Pe. At this time, the fixed roll 224a remains in a stopped state (a free state).

  Subsequently, side edge alignment using a width alignment mechanism (not shown) is performed on the first sheet P stacked on the sheet stacking unit 50. As a result, the first sheet P is positioned (the front-rear direction and the width direction) on the sheet stacking unit 50.

  During this time, the image forming apparatus 1 forms an image on the second sheet P, and the second sheet P after the image formation is transferred from the image forming apparatus 1 through the transport unit 21 to the finisher unit 22. It is carried in. Then, the second sheet P carried into the finisher unit 22 further moves in the conveyance path formed between the upper guide plate 225 and the lower guide plate 226 by the carry-in roll 221 or the like, and proceeds. The paper is discharged along the carrying-in direction D1 with the front side in the direction as the front end and the rear side in the traveling direction as the rear end. In the present embodiment, after the side edge alignment with respect to the first sheet P is completed on the sheet stacking unit 50, the second sheet P is discharged onto the sheet stacking unit 50. The supply timing of the paper P is set.

  The discharged second sheet P passes through between the main paddle part 222 and the sub paddle part 223 and between the fixed roll 224a and the advance / retreat roll 224b by gravity, and passes through the sheet stacking part 50 (bottom plate). 51) Further, the sub paddle part 223 and the advance / retreat roll 224b move from the retracted position Pe to the advanced position Pa. At this time, the fixed roll 224a remains in a stopped state (a free state).

  Next, the first paddle blades 901 to 901 provided on the sub paddle 90 of the sub paddle portion 223 that rotates in the clockwise direction in the drawing are the leading end side of the second sheet P that has fallen to the bottom plate 51 side along the carry-in direction D1. The third paddle feather 903 contacts intermittently. As a result, the traveling direction of the second sheet P is reversed, and this time, it starts moving on the bottom plate 51 along the introduction direction D2 with the front side in the traveling direction as the rear end and the rear side in the traveling direction as the front end. . However, at this time, the first sheet P is already stacked on the bottom plate 51, and the second sheet P actually moves on the first sheet P. become. At this time, the first sheet P and the second sheet P are sandwiched between the discharge roll 224, that is, the fixed roll 224a and the forward / backward roll 224b, but the fixed roll 224a and the forward / backward roll 224b are free. Therefore, the movement of the second sheet P is not hindered.

  Subsequently, the rear end side of the second sheet P that moves on the bottom plate 51 along the introduction direction D2 has a central paddle 80, a first end paddle 81, and a main paddle portion 222 that rotate clockwise in FIG. The first paddle blades 801, 811, 821 to the third paddle blades 803, 813, 823 provided on each of the second end paddles 82 are intermittently contacted. Thus, the second sheet P continues to move along the introduction direction D2 on the first sheet P on the bottom plate 51 with the front side in the traveling direction as the rear end and the rear side in the traveling direction as the front end. Go.

  When the rear end of the second sheet P that moves along the introduction direction D2 hits the wall surface of the regulation plate 52 in the sheet stacking unit 50, the movement of the second sheet P along the introduction direction D2 is restricted. Then, the second sheet P stops. Then, the sub paddle part 223 and the advance / retreat roll 224b move from the advance position Pa to the retreat position Pe. At this time, the fixed roll 224a remains in a stopped state (a free state).

  Subsequently, side edge alignment using a width alignment mechanism (not shown) for the second sheet P stacked on the sheet stacking unit 50 is executed. As a result, the second sheet P is positioned (front-rear direction and width direction) on the sheet stacking unit 50. As a result, in the paper stacking unit 50, the two sheets P overlap and are aligned.

  Then, the sub paddle part 223 and the advance / retreat roll 224b move from the retracted position Pe to the advanced position Pa. At this time, the fixed roll 224a stops rotating and is restricted (locked). Further, the two sheets P stacked on the sheet stacking unit 50 are sandwiched between the fixed roll 224a and the advance / retreat roll 224b.

  Next, the regulation plate 52 rotates in the paper stacking unit 50, and the rear end side of the two sheets of paper P faces the binding function unit 60. At this time, since the sheet bundle composed of the two sheets P is held by the discharge roll 224 whose rotation is restricted, the aligned state is hardly disturbed. Then, using the binding function unit 60, the end binding process is performed on the rear end side of the sheet bundle composed of the two sheets P overlapped on the bottom plate 51. When the end binding process is completed, the regulating plate 52 rotates in the reverse direction in the paper stacking unit 50 and returns to the original state. The end binding process may be performed at one place or at a plurality of places.

  Subsequently, the fixed roll 224a starts to rotate in the clockwise direction in the drawing in a state where the sheet bundle subjected to the end binding process is sandwiched between the discharge rolls 224. Accordingly, the sheet bundle starts to move on the bottom plate 51 along the discharge direction D3 with the front side in the traveling direction as the leading end and the rear side in the traveling direction as the rear end. Thereafter, the sheet bundle is discharged and stacked on the stacker unit 70.

  After the sheet bundle is discharged to the stacker unit 70, the rotation of the fixed roll 224a stops, and the sub paddle unit 223 and the advance / retreat roll 224b move from the advance position Pa to the retract position Pe. At this time, the fixed roll 224a is set in a free state. Then, the rotation of the main paddle part 222 and the sub paddle part 223 stops, and the creation of one sheet bundle (end-stitched) is completed.

  Here, a specific operation of the main paddle unit 222 in the operation of the above-described image forming system will be described. In the present embodiment, since the central paddle 80, the first end paddle 81, and the second end paddle 82 constituting the main paddle portion 222 have a common configuration, the central paddle 80 is taken as an example. Give an explanation.

  FIG. 7 is a view for explaining the behavior when the center paddle 80 rotates in the finisher unit 22. Here, FIGS. 7A to 7F illustrate the behavior of the stopped central paddle 80 from the start of rotation to the rotation of 120 °. In the following description, in the center paddle 80, the first paddle wing 801 is in the state shown in FIG. 6B, the second paddle wing 802 is in the state shown in FIG. 6B, and Each of the third paddle feathers 803 in the state shown in FIG. 6B is referred to as a “basic state”.

  FIG. 7A shows the central paddle 80 in a stopped state. In this example, the first paddle blade 801 is in contact with the lower guide plate 226, while both the second paddle blade 802 and the third paddle blade 803 are connected to the lower guide plate 226 and the bottom plate 51. It is in the state which does not contact both. As a result, the first paddle wing 801 is in a state where the free end side is bent toward the upstream side in the rotational direction of the central paddle 80 as compared to the basic state (indicated by a broken line in the figure) (hereinafter referred to as a compressed state). Both the second paddle feather 802 and the third paddle feather 803 are in a basic state.

  In the following description, a region where the first paddle blade 801, the second paddle blade 802, or the third paddle blade 803 and the lower guide plate 226 are in contact with each other is referred to as a first contact region, and the first paddle blade 801, A region where the two paddle blades 802 or the third paddle blade 803 and the bottom plate 51 (or the paper P on the bottom plate 51) contact is referred to as a second contact region (corresponding to the contact region in the present invention). In the following description, a region from the downstream end of the first contact region to the upstream end of the second contact region along the rotation direction of the center paddle 80 is referred to as an upstream non-contact region, and the center paddle A region extending along the rotation direction 80 from the downstream end of the second contact region to the upstream end of the first contact region is referred to as a downstream non-contact region.

  Accordingly, in FIG. 7A, the first paddle blade 801 is positioned in the first contact region, the second paddle blade 802 is in the downstream non-contact region, and the third paddle blade 803 is positioned in the upstream non-contact region. Will be.

  FIG. 7B shows a state in which the center paddle 80 starts to rotate and is rotated about 24 ° clockwise from the stop state shown in FIG. 7A. In this example, the first paddle feather 801 moves from the first contact area to the upstream non-contact area, while the second paddle feather 802 continues to the downstream non-contact area, and the third paddle feather 803 continues to the upstream side. Each is located in a non-contact area.

  At this time, the first paddle wing 801 moves from the first contact area to the upstream non-contact area, and the compressed state is eliminated. There is a vibration in which the free end moves in the front-rear direction with the base as a fulcrum. In the example shown in FIG. 7B, the free end side of the first paddle blade 801 is bent toward the downstream side in the rotational direction of the center paddle 80 as compared to the basic state shown by the broken line in the figure (hereinafter, Called “advanced state”). On the other hand, the second paddle feather 802 existing in the downstream non-contact area and the third paddle feather 803 existing in the upstream non-contact area continue to maintain the basic state.

  FIG. 7C shows a state in which the center paddle 80 is further rotated by about 24 ° in the clockwise direction from the state shown in FIG. 7B. In this example, the third paddle blade 803 moves from the upstream non-contact region to the second contact region, while the first paddle blade 801 continues to the upstream non-contact region, and the second paddle blade 802 continues to the downstream side. Each is located in a non-contact area.

  At this time, the third paddle blade 803 moves from the upstream non-contact region to the second contact region, so that the free end side of the third paddle blade 803 has a central paddle 80 compared to the basic state (indicated by a broken line in the drawing). It has shifted to the compressed state bent to the upstream side in the rotation direction. Further, in this example, the first paddle blade 801 that exists and vibrates in the upstream non-contact region has shifted from the advanced state shown in FIG. 7B to the basic state. On the other hand, the second paddle blades 802 existing in the downstream non-contact region continue to maintain the basic state.

  FIG. 7D shows a state in which the center paddle 80 is further rotated about 24 ° in the clockwise direction from the state shown in FIG. In this example, the first paddle blade 801 continues to be positioned in the upstream non-contact region, the second paddle blade 802 continues to be in the downstream non-contact region, and the third paddle blade 803 continues to be positioned in the second contact region. Yes.

  At this time, the first paddle blade 801 that exists and vibrates in the upstream non-contact region has a free end side in the center from the basic state shown in FIG. The paddle 80 shifts to a state bent toward the downstream side in the rotation direction (hereinafter referred to as “delay state”). Further, in this example, the third paddle feather 803 existing in the second contact area continues to maintain the compressed state. On the other hand, the second paddle blades 802 existing in the downstream non-contact region continue to maintain the basic state.

  FIG. 7E shows a state in which the center paddle 80 is further rotated about 24 ° in the clockwise direction from the state shown in FIG. In this example, the first paddle blade 801 continues to be positioned in the upstream non-contact region, the second paddle blade 802 continues to be in the downstream non-contact region, and the third paddle blade 803 continues to be positioned in the second contact region. Yes.

  At this time, the first paddle blade 801 that exists and vibrates in the upstream non-contact region has shifted from the delayed state shown in FIG. 7D to the basic state. Further, in this example, the third paddle feather 803 existing in the second contact area continues to maintain the compressed state. On the other hand, the second paddle blades 802 existing in the downstream non-contact region continue to maintain the basic state.

  FIG. 7F shows a state in which the center paddle 80 is further rotated about 24 ° in the clockwise direction from the state shown in FIG. In this example, the second paddle blade 802 moves from the downstream non-contact region to the first contact region, and the third paddle blade 803 moves from the second contact region to the downstream non-contact region. The wing 801 continues to be positioned in the upstream non-contact region.

  At this time, the second paddle blade 802 moves from the downstream non-contact region to the first contact region, so that the free end side of the second paddle blade 802 has a central paddle 80 as compared with the basic state (indicated by a broken line in the drawing). It has shifted to the compressed state bent to the upstream side in the rotation direction. Further, the third paddle blade 803 moves from the second contact area to the downstream non-contact area, and the root is fixed to the rotation shaft 800 with respect to the rotation direction of the center paddle 80 as the compressed state is eliminated. The vibration which the free end moves to the front-back direction has occurred. In the example shown in FIG. 7F, the free end side of the third paddle blade 803 is in an advanced state bent toward the downstream side in the rotational direction of the central paddle 80 as compared with the basic state indicated by the broken line in the drawing. ing. On the other hand, the first paddle blade 801 that exists and vibrates in the upstream non-contact region has shifted from the basic state shown in FIG. 7E to the advanced state.

  Thereafter, the first paddle blade 801 that vibrates in the upstream non-contact area moves from the upstream non-contact area to the second contact area. In addition, as the center paddle 80 rotates, the second paddle blade 802 and the third paddle blade 803 move to the second non-contact region from the first contact region, and in the second contact region, the vibration is generated. storm in.

  On the other hand, the third paddle blade 803 that vibrates in the downstream non-contact area moves from the downstream non-contact area to the first contact area. In addition, as the center paddle 80 rotates, the first paddle blade 801 and the second paddle blade 802 also enter the first contact region in a state where vibration is generated by entering the downstream non-contact region from the second contact region. Moving.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the first paddle blade 801 to the third paddle blade 803 constituting the central paddle 80 vibrate as they pass through the first contact region in contact with the lower guide plate 226. The second contact area that contacts the bottom plate 51 (or the paper P on the bottom plate 51) in a vibrating state is reached. In the present embodiment, the first paddle blade 801 to the third paddle blade 803 constituting the central paddle 80 pass through the second contact area in contact with the bottom plate 51 (or the paper P on the bottom plate 51). It vibrates with it and reaches the first contact area in contact with the lower guide plate 226 in the vibrated state.

  Such a behavior can also occur in the first end paddle 81 and the second end paddle 82 that constitute the main paddle portion 222 together with the central paddle 80.

  Next, the vibration that occurs in the paddle blades provided in the paddle that constitutes the main paddle portion 222 will be specifically described. In the present embodiment, the central paddle 80, the first end paddle 81, and the second end paddle 82 that constitute the main paddle portion 222 have a common configuration, and three paddles in each paddle. Since the wings have a common configuration, the first paddle wing 801 in the center paddle 80 will be described as an example.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the vibration generated in the paddle feather (here, the first paddle feather 801 in the central paddle 80). In FIG. 8, the horizontal axis represents the passage of time, and the vertical axis represents the amplitude of the paddle feather.

  In the present embodiment, when the first paddle wing 801 is released from the compressed state, natural vibration based on the material and shape of the first paddle wing 801 is generated. This natural vibration draws a sinusoidal locus when the horizontal axis is time and the vertical axis is amplitude.

  Here, when the period of the natural vibration is defined as the vibration period Tv, the vibration period Tv includes the advance period Tp in which the first paddle blade 801 is in the advanced state (see FIGS. 7B and 7F), and the first paddle. This is expressed as the sum of a delay period Td in which the wing 801 is in a delayed state (see FIG. 7D). In the advance period Tp, there is a maximum point tmax where the positive amplitude is maximum, and in the delay period Td, there is a minimum point tmin where the negative amplitude is maximum.

  When the period from the minimum point tmin to the next minimum point tmin is grasped as the vibration period Tv, the vibration period Tv shifts while the first paddle blade 801 accelerates from the delayed state to the advanced state (minimum point tmin). From the acceleration period Ta (from the maximum point tmax to the maximum point tmax) and the deceleration period Ts in which the first paddle blade 801 moves while decelerating from the advanced state to the delayed state (from the maximum point tmax to the minimum point tmin). The In the acceleration period Ta, there is an acceleration zero cross point txa in which the amplitude is 0 during acceleration, that is, the first paddle blade 801 is in the basic state (see FIG. 7E), and in the deceleration period Ts, during acceleration. There is a deceleration zero cross point txs where the amplitude is 0, that is, the first paddle blade 801 is in the basic state (see FIG. 7C). As is clear from the figure, in the acceleration period Ta, the positive slope is greatest at the acceleration zero cross point txa (acceleration is high), and in the deceleration period Ts, the negative slope is greatest at the deceleration zero cross point txs. (Deceleration is high).

  In the present embodiment, the first paddle blade 801 in which the natural vibration as described above has occurred in accordance with the movement from the first contact region to the upstream non-contact region is caused to move to the upstream non-contact region during the deceleration period Ts. Settings are made to move from the contact area to the second contact area. Further, in the present embodiment, the first paddle blade 801 in which the natural vibration as described above is generated in accordance with the movement from the second contact region to the downstream non-contact region is moved downstream during the deceleration period Ts. Settings are made to move from the side non-contact area to the first contact area. Note that such setting is made by the material constituting the central paddle 80 (including the first paddle blade 801), the dimensions of the first paddle blade 801, the peripheral speed of the central paddle 80, the central paddle 80 and the lower guide plate 226, and This is done by adjusting the positional relationship with the bottom plate 51 and the like.

  For example, when the first paddle blade 801 is moved from the upstream non-contact region to the second contact region during the acceleration period Ta, the first paddle wing 801 relative to the bottom plate 51 (or the sheet P on the bottom plate 51). There is a concern that the generated noise increases because the wing 801 strikes strongly. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, since the first paddle blade 801 is moved from the upstream non-contact region to the second contact region during the deceleration period Ts, the first paddle blade 801 has been described above. It will be hitting weaker than the example, and the generated noise will be reduced.

  For example, when the first paddle blade 801 is moved from the downstream non-contact region to the first contact region during the acceleration period Ta, the first paddle blade 801 is stronger than the lower guide plate 226. There is a concern that the generated noise will increase. In contrast, in the present embodiment, since the first paddle blade 801 is moved from the downstream non-contact region to the first contact region during the deceleration period Ts, the first paddle blade 801 has been described above. It will be hitting weaker than the example, and the generated noise will be reduced.

  Note that the timing at which the first paddle blade 801 abuts against the bottom plate 51 (or the sheet P on the bottom plate 51) or the lower guide plate 226 may be any time during the deceleration period Ts. If the deceleration zero cross point at which the speed is highest is set, the generation of noise can be further suppressed. Further, considering that a plurality of sheets P can be stacked on the bottom plate 51 and that the number of sheets P stacked on the bottom plate 51 can be changed, the deceleration period Ts and the delay period Td are not exceeded. It is desirable to choose.

In the present embodiment, the case where each of the center paddle 80, the first end paddle 81, and the second end paddle 82 has three paddle feathers has been described. It is not limited to this, and it is sufficient that each has at least one paddle feather.
Further, in the present embodiment, vibration is generated in each paddle blade using the lower guide plate 226 that constitutes the conveyance path of the paper P. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and vibration is generated in each paddle. The member for making it possible may be provided separately from the lower guide plate 226.
Further, in the present embodiment, the peripheral speed of the main paddle part 222 is constant, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the peripheral speed of the main paddle part 222 is reached before reaching the first contact area or the second contact area. The speed may be reduced.
Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the central paddle 80, the first end paddle 81, and the second end paddle 82 that constitute the main paddle portion 222 are integrally formed. However, the rotating shaft and each paddle feather may be formed of different parts and assembled.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 (100Y, 100M, 100C, 100K) ... Image forming unit, 2 ... Sheet post-processing apparatus, 21 ... Transport unit, 22 ... Finisher unit, 50 ... Paper stacking part, 51 ... Bottom plate, 52 ... Restriction plate, 60 ... End binding function section, 70 ... Stacker section, 80 ... Center paddle, 81 ... First end paddle, 82 ... Second end paddle, 83 ... Shaft, 90 ... Sub paddle, 221 ... Loading roll, 222 ... Main paddle section, 223 ... sub-paddle part, 224 ... discharge roll, 225 ... upper guide plate, 226 ... lower guide plate, 227 ... static elimination brush, Tv ... vibration period, Tp ... advance period, Td ... delay period, Ta ... acceleration period, Ts ... Deceleration period, txa ... acceleration zero cross point, txs ... deceleration zero cross point, tmax ... maximum point, tmin ... minimum point

Claims (5)

A loading section for loading the recording material that is brought in;
A conveyance member that is provided rotatably and has a contact portion that intermittently contacts the recording material on the stacking portion with rotation, and conveys the recording material on the stacking portion;
The contact portion is provided so as to come into contact with the contact portion on the upstream side in the rotation direction of the conveying member with respect to the contact area where the contact portion and the recording material on the stacking portion are in contact, and the contact portion is a recording material on the stacking portion. And a vibrating member that vibrates the contact portion so that the contact portion faces away from the rotation direction of the conveyance member.   The conveying device according to claim 1, wherein the vibration member also serves as a guide member that guides the recording material that is carried into the stacking unit.   The transport apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the transport member rotates at a predetermined peripheral speed, and a plurality of the contact portions are provided at equal intervals along a rotation direction of the transport member.   2. The transport apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a post-processing unit that performs predetermined post-processing on one or a plurality of recording materials stacked on the stacking unit. An image forming unit for forming an image on a recording material;
A stacking unit for stacking recording materials carried in an image formed by the image forming unit;
A conveyance member that is provided rotatably and has a contact portion that intermittently contacts the recording material on the stacking portion with rotation, and conveys the recording material on the stacking portion;
The contact portion is provided so as to come into contact with the contact portion on the upstream side in the rotation direction of the conveying member with respect to the contact area where the contact portion and the recording material on the stacking portion are in contact, and the contact portion is a recording material on the stacking portion. An image forming system including a vibrating member that vibrates the contact portion so that the contact portion is directed to a side opposite to a rotation direction of the transport member when contacting the head.

Images